A microbrewery or micro-distillery is classified as a light manufacturing use and is allowed as a matter-of-right pursuant to 11 DCMR § U-801.1(v) in the Production, Distribution and Repair or PDR Zone. 

The Zoning Administrator has determined that when a microbrewery or micro-distillery also serves patrons beverages and food for on-site consumption, the classification of the principal use is based upon the percentage of the beverages sold to the patrons for on-site consumption versus the amount of such product that is sold for consumption off-site.  

If less than 20% of the beverages produced on-site are served to patrons for on-site consumption, then the use is classified as a light manufacturing use.  This light manufacturing use is deemed the principal use, which is allowed as a matter of right in a PDR Zone, with an accessory eating and drinking establishment use.   

If, however, 20% or more of the beverages produced on-site are served to patrons for on-site consumption, then such manufacturing use would be classified as accessory to an eating and drinking establishment use.  Such an eating and drinking establishment uses are allowed as a matter of right in those zones in which an eating and drinking establishment use is a permitted principal use.